On Saturday morning, Tomasi Waimuka faced a tragic circumstance as he learned of the death of his son, Aporosa Momo, a suspected victim of a hit-and-run incident on Drasa Avenue in Lautoka. Momo, aged 26, was discovered by a passerby and was rushed to Lautoka Hospital, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Mr. Waimuka, from Nasowata Settlement, shared that the family had returned home from a funeral the previous day. Later that night, Momo informed him he was heading to a relative’s home. Just a few hours later, he received the devastating news from his nephews that Momo had been involved in a serious accident.
“All I wished for was to see him alive with minor injuries,” Mr. Waimuka said, expressing his shock upon arriving at the scene to find his son’s body covered by a sheet, with police prohibiting any contact. Momo is remembered for his dedication to community and family, leaving behind two young children and a legacy of service, especially in local rugby.
In addition to Momo’s case, another road incident occurred early Friday morning, resulting in the death of 38-year-old Ronesh Chand, a businessman from Nadi. Police reported that Mr. Chand lost control of his vehicle while driving with three passengers, who were subsequently rushed to Lautoka Hospital. While Mr. Chand tragically died, two passengers are in stable condition, and another was discharged.
Senior Super-intendent of Police Mitieli Divuana stated that investigations are underway regarding both accidents and noted that the current road death toll is 50, a decrease from the 71 recorded during the same timeframe last year.
In a landscape of sorrow and loss, these incidents remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety awareness. The community is left grieving for their lost loved ones while also reflecting on measures needed to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This story underscores a growing concern about road safety, prompting calls for greater awareness and caution among all drivers. While the incidents are heartbreaking, they also serve as a catalyst for discussions surrounding traffic regulations and community safety measures, aiming for a future where families are spared such tragedies.
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